Bali, the Island of the Gods, is an earthly heaven that draws in millions of travelers each year.
With its captivating shorelines, lavish green scenery, lively culture, and spiritual air, Bali is a go-to spot for a tropical getaway.
But with so many wonderful locations to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to reside in Bali.
If you are in search of a peaceful beachfront escape, a bustling city lifestyle, or a spiritual hideaway, there is a perfect spot in Bali for everyone.
In this article, we will look at some of the best places to live in Bali, taking into account aspects such as convenience of living, cost of living, safety, and cultural attractions.
That way if ever you are considering buying your own home property in Bali, you will know all the ins and outs.
Are you ready to find your ideal home in this tropical paradise? Let’s get to it.
How to choose where to live
When looking for a place to settle down, it's important to bear in mind the following:
- Accessibility/Transportation: Examine the proximity to airports, public transport, and essential places such as supermarkets, clinics, and schools.
- Budget: Bali has various housing options, from cheap apartments to extravagant villas. Take into account your budget and lifestyle when choosing a place to live.
- Safety: Although Bali is generally safe, it's a good idea to check the crime rate and security of the area.
- Cultural attractions: Bali is renowned for its cultural heritage and spiritual ambiance. Consider relocating to a region with a strong tradition if you want to blend in with the community.
- Healthcare: Although Bali's medical facilities may not meet the standards of hospitals in some other nations, they are undoubtedly of top quality. Yet because you could require specialized care, it's important to pick your home's location wisely.
- Weather: You might prefer mild temperatures over hot, humid ones. Consider which appeal to you the most.
- Local community: Examine whether the neighbourhood is welcoming and friendly, and check if there are many other expats in the area.
#1 The best overall : Canggu
Canggu, which is situated in Bali's southwest, has recently gained popularity. People now refer to it as the “new Seminyak” due to its trendy hippie vibes.
It is well known for its laid-back surf culture, green rice paddies, and stunning shorelines.
Attracted by its relaxing atmosphere, young digital nomads and foreigners have transformed it into a hub of activity, making it the top choice for remote workers.
Canggu is well-known for having a lengthy black-sand beach and for having some of Bali's top surfing locations.
If you plan on spending hours surfing or simply soaking up the sun consider living near Canggu’s beaches such as Berawa Beach, Batu Bolong Beach, Echo Beach,...
The area is also home to a vibrant yoga and wellness sector, with numerous studios and establishments offering instruction and training.
Due to its popularity, Canggu has grown into a vibrant neighbourhood with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Everybody can find a place to stay in Canggu, which offers everything from pricey villas to affordable flats.
Despite its popularity and growth, it has managed to maintain its relaxing vibe, making it the perfect spot for people who prefer a more serene and soothing environment while still enjoying modern comfort.
Many expats and locals favor it because of its convenient location and ideal mix of cultural and natural attractions.
Pros ✅
- Trendy Vibe
- Best for expats
- Very safe
- Affordable prices
- Best for digital nomads
Cons ❌
- Crowded
- Heavy traffic
- Noise pollution
- Fast development
If you are interested in living in this area you might be interested in searching through our canggu real estate property listings for sale.
#2 The best for tranquility: Sanur
Situated on the southeastern shore of Bali, Sanur is a renowned spot for both tourists and expats.
It has a gorgeous white-sand beach and clear waters, making it an excellent preference for swimming and other water sports such as snorkeling.
The town has a vibrant local population, with a range of dining and shopping options, like traditional markets and high-end restaurants.
Sanur is well-known for its serene ambiance and is an ideal choice for those seeking a pleasant living experience in Bali.
It has a strong expat community, with international schools and medical services.
The town has an array of housing choices, from cheap apartments to luxurious villas with stunning ocean views.
In addition, Sanur is famous for its picturesque streets and alleyways, perfect for walks or bike rides.
Overall, Sanur is unquestionably a location in Bali worth taking into account if you're looking for isolation and tranquility.
Pros ✅
- Calm ambiance
- Thriving local community
- Strong expat community
- Variety of housing alternatives
Cons ❌
- Limited nightlife
- Very busy during tourist seasons
- Higher cost of living
- More developed (less traditional)
If you are interested in potentially living in Sanur you might be interested in searching through our Sanur real estate property listings for sale.
#3 The best for surfing : Uluwatu
Uluwatu is a breathtaking coastal region located on the southernmost point of Bali.
This picturesque region is a well-liked vacation spot for surfers and beach lovers thanks to its magnificent cliffs, immaculate beaches, and sparkling waters.
One of the main attractions of this area is the Uluwatu Temple, which offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Nearby beaches like Padang Padang and Dreamland are other well-liked places to surf or just relax in the sun.
Uluwatu is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and serene setting, as it's much less crowded and touristy compared to other popular areas in Bali.
A variety of lodging choices are available in this region, from inexpensive guest houses to luxurious villas with private pools.
When looking for a place to spend an evening out, the area is known for its high-end restaurants that serve fresh seafood and other types of cuisine from across the world.
While Uluwatu is perfect for people who value natural beauty and a slower pace of life, it might not be the best place for people who want vibrant nightlife or quick access to important shopping and entertainment centers.
Pros ✅
- Beautiful scenery
- Best surfing spots
- Calm atmosphere
- Cultural landmarks
Cons ❌
- Crowded
- Limited infrastructure/amenities
- Higher cost of living
- Isolated (challenge for transportation)
If you are considering living in Uluwatu you might be interested in looking through our Uluwatu real estate property listings for sale.
#4 The best for nightlife: Kuta
Kuta is well known for having lively nightlife, which makes it a favorite among young tourists and partygoers.
There are numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants in the area that provide a variety of entertainment choices, such as live music, DJ performances, and sporting events.
Kuta has much to offer, whether you like to relax with a few beers at a laid-back bar or dance the night away at a vibrant club.
The town is particularly well-known for its renowned beach parties, which annually draw tens of thousands of visitors.
For individuals who enjoy socializing with both tourists and locals, Kuta provides a variety of dining and shopping places in addition to its bustling nightlife.
Overall, Kuta is a great place to go if you want to experience Bali's dynamic and energetic side.
Pros ✅
- Vibrant nightlife
- Perfect for adventure-seekers
- Wide range of shopping and dining options
- (Popular beach including water sports activities)
Cons ❌
- Crowded and noisy
- Limited peace and privacy
- (Limited green spaces and public parks
- Limited access to cultural and historical sites
- Pollution)
If you are considering living in Kuta you might be interested in looking through our Kuta real estate property listings for sale.
#5 The best for luxury: Seminyak
On Bali's southwest coast, Seminyak is a stylish and upscale beach town well renowned for its luxurious resorts, chic shops, and fine dining options.
The town has a stylish and contemporary environment, which draws wealthy tourists and expatriates.
Beautiful sandy beaches with clean water can be found in Seminyak, making it the ideal place for swimming, tanning, and soaking in stunning sunsets.
The town is particularly well known for its top-notch spa services, which offer a relaxing and refreshing experience.
Seminyak is a terrific destination for foodies as it provides a wide variety of dining alternatives, from laid-back beachside cafes to chic fine-dining restaurants.
The city is renowned for its fashion and shopping, with a variety of boutiques and stores selling stylish clothing, accessories, and jewelry.
Seminyak may get very crowded, especially during the busiest travel times, and the cost of living can be rather costly compared to other parts of Bali.
However, Seminyak is unquestionably the area you want to stay in if you're searching for a sophisticated and fashionable lifestyle.
Pros ✅
- Stylish and upscale atmosphere
- Lovely beaches and crystal-clear waters
- Diverse dining options
- World-class spa treatments
- Vibrant shopping area
Cons ❌
- High cost of living
- Crowded
- Limited parking and congested traffic
- Limited public transportation options
- Noisy
If you are considering living in Seminyak you might be interested in looking through our Seminyak real estate property listings for sale.
#6 The best for authenticity: Ubud
Ubud, a lovely town in Bali's central highlands, is well-known for both its rich cultural heritage and its surrounding natural beauty.
The village is surrounded by gorgeous forests, picturesque water temples, and lush, green rice paddies.
Ubud is a well-liked travel destination for visitors seeking to experience Bali's distinctive combination of old traditions and modern luxury thanks to its scenic environment.
The thriving arts sector in Ubud is one of the city's main attractions. The island's rich artistic past is on display in local studios, museums, and galleries, which visitors can explore.
The town is a great choice for anybody wishing to improve their physical and spiritual well-being thanks to its growing yoga and wellness culture.
There are many different places to dine, shop, and engage in leisure activities.
The bustling local markets in Ubud are especially well-known for offering a wide selection of goods and souvenirs to tourists at affordable costs.
The town is also well-connected by road, making it simple to travel to other parts of Bali.
While Ubud has a lot to offer, not everyone will enjoy it.
The cost of living in the town can be somewhat high when compared to other parts of Bali, and it can get extremely busy, especially during the busiest travel season.
Despite these drawbacks, Ubud is a popular destination for people seeking to discover Bali's genuine cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Pros ✅
- Surrounded by nature
- Cultural hub
- Health and wellbeing
- Affordable living costs
Cons ❌
- Crowded + Heavy traffic
- Limited nightlife
- Limited public transportation
- Far from the beach
If Ubud sounds attractive to you, you might be interested in looking through our Ubud real estate property listings for sale.
#7 The best for budget : Denpasar
Bali's capital city, Denpasar, is situated in the center of the island.
It is renowned for being a thriving metropolis that offers a wide variety of food, shopping, and cultural events.
The city is home to numerous ancient structures and temples, including Puputan Square and the well-known Bali Museum.
All the needs, such as grocery stores, hospitals, and shopping malls, are accessible to people who live in Denpasar.
Denpasar is home to Bali's only airport, Ngurah Rai, making it a strategic choice in terms of mobility.
It is simple to get from the city to other parts of Bali thanks to the island's excellent transportation system.
Additionally, Denpasar is renowned for its street food and nightlife scenes, which provide a wide variety of dining options for foodies.
However, due to the city's fast-paced way of life and heavy traffic, living in Denpasar may be rather hectic. A serene existence is less likely to be found in the city because of noise and pollution.
Nonetheless, Denpasar is a terrific option for individuals who prefer the bustle of city life and want to live close to all the fun while keeping your bank account happy.
Pros ✅
- Very cheap / budget-friendly
- Convenient location (close to popular tourist spots)
- Urban amenities/facilities
- Culture and History / Melting-pot of Balinese culture and history / Rich cultural heritage/legacy
Cons ❌
- Heavy traffic / Traffic congestion
- Lack of open spaces / limited green areas
- Noise and air pollution
If you are curious to know what type of home you could find in Denpasar for yourself, feel free to look through our Denpasar real estate property listings for sale.
#8 The best for couples: Nusa Dua
On Bali's southeast coast is the upscale resort community of Nusa Dua.
For those looking to escape the rush of city life, this tranquil and attractive region offers a private and peaceful environment.
This upmarket area is a terrific option for individuals who wish to indulge in luxury facilities because it is home to some of the island's best hotels, spas, and golf courses.
Living in Nusa Dua offers several benefits, including easy access to some of the island's most stunning beaches, including the well-known Nusa Dua Beach, which is renowned for its immaculate white sand and turquoise waters.
Additionally, the town is home to several cultural attractions, such as the Bali Collection shopping mall.
Nusa Dua is not suitable for everyone, though.
For those on a limited budget, it can be a bit pricey, and it's not the best choice if you're seeking lively nightlife or a sense of community.
Since the region is also somewhat remote from the rest of the island, having a means of transportation is essential if you wish to visit other parts of the island.
Despite these drawbacks, the peaceful and romantic setting makes Nusa Dua the perfect spot for couples seeking a luxurious and intimate retreat.
Pros ✅
- Perfect for couples
- Luxury accommodation and amenities
- Beautiful beaches
- Safe and secure
Cons ❌
- Expensive/high cost of living
- Crowded
- Limited local culture
- Remote location (challenge to access)
- Limited nightlife
If Nusa Dua sounds like the spot for you, you might be interested in looking through our Nusa Dua real estate property listings for sale.
FAQ
Where is the best area to live in Bali?
When taking into account most individuals' personal preferences and lifestyles, Canggu is considered the best option when choosing a place to live in Bali.
Where do most expats live in Bali?
Most expats live in areas such as Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, and Sanur.
Interested in finding a place to live?
In the end, the ideal place to live in Bali depends on individual preferences.
There is a suitable site on the island for everyone, whether you enjoy surfing, the beach, yoga, or good food.
We recommend conducting research and visiting many locations before making your final decision.
If you are interested in settling down and living in Bali you might be searching for somewhere to live, if so the team here at Exotiq would be happy to help you find your very own dream property on the island that fits your own personal budget.
Feel free to get in touch with us!
